Ramoji fought on people’s side: CM

The inspiration of media baron Ch Ramoji Rao should be carried forward to future generations, said Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu.
Addressing a large gathering at the memorial service of Padma Vibhushan awardee Ramoji Rao, organised by the Government of Andhra Pradesh in Vijayawada on Thursday, the CM praised Rao for his decades of service to society.
Many journalists, film, and political personalities attended the memorial service for Ramoji Rao, the chairman of Ramoji Group of Companies. Chief Minister Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Ramoji Rao’s family members, prominent journalists, state ministers, and film celebrities were present at the ceremony.
On this occasion, the CM announced, “In line with Vigyan Bhavan in Delhi, we will set up Ramoji Vigyan Kendra in Amaravati. A road in Amaravati will be named Ramoji Rao Marg. We will also establish Ramoji Rao Chitranagari in Visakhapatnam. He should receive due recognition for his services to the Telugu people. It is our responsibility to secure the Bharat Ratna for NTR and Ramoji Rao.”
Chandrababu Naidu further stated, “Ramoji Rao is not just a person but a system. Everything he did was in the public interest. Ramoji Rao epitomized ethics and honesty. Born in the remote village of Pedaparupudi in Krishna district, he rose to prominence through perseverance, becoming number one in every chosen field. On August 10, 1974, the ‘Eenadu’ newspaper was started in Visakhapatnam. For five decades, ‘Eenadu’ has been raising public awareness of current issues. Ramoji Rao, through the press, constantly fought on public issues. District editions were introduced, addressing issues at the grassroots level. The Ramoji Group has nurtured the careers of many actors, artists, and journalists. Ramoji Rao has received numerous awards for his work in journalism. He is a prime example of unwavering faith and dedication. There will be only one NTR, only one Ramoji in history.”
The CM pointed out that many governments have tried to undermine Margadarsi Chits, but despite their efforts, they could not damage the trust and reputation of the organisation. He added, “Priya’s pickles are popular and exported to 150 countries. Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad is the world’s biggest film city and is beautifully designed. The Ramoji Group stood by the people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most people serve only when they hold positions, but Ramoji Rao proved that good administration and services can be provided to people with public consciousness. Ramoji Rao’s role was crucial when NTR floated the TDP in 1982; he came to power in 9 months. He was fearless and faced challenges bravely. Ramoji Rao’s contribution to the development of Hyderabad is significant.”
The CM further remarked, “Ramoji Rao lived by his values and fought for the people. After the State’s bifurcation, Ramoji Rao researched and suggested the name ‘Amaravati’ as the capital of Andhra Pradesh. After facing difficulties for five years, Amaravati will be transformed into an iconic capital, securing a bright future for the Telugu nation. For Ramoji, the Telugu language and the Telugu race meant immense affection. He wanted to work until his last breath, and that is exactly what happened.”